7 Ways To Keep Your Homes Electrical and Critical Systems Safe During A Storm

1. Unplug Electronics & Appliances 

This step assures you that power surges from lightning strikes or fallen trees on power lines won't harm your sen electronics and appliances, including computers, TVs, gaming consoles, kitchen appliances, and other devices. While this is a very effective step, it only protects what can be plugged in - leaving HVAC units, ceiling fans, water heaters, and car chargers susceptible to power surges caused by lightning strikes or electrical disturbances that can damage these items. Want more piece of mind?...

2. Use Surge Protectors

Standard wall-mounted or plug-in surge protectors: For devices that can't be unplugged, use lightning-rated surge protectors. Surge protectors help divert excess voltage from your devices, safeguarding them from power surges. Ensure you use high-quality surge protectors with sufficient joule ratings to handle the potential surges during a storm. 

Whole home surge protectors: Still worried? Use whole home surge protectors (type 1 or type 2 SPD) for your electrical appliances and critical systems. These surge protectors protect your entire home. Power surges during storms can damage electronics and surge protectors can absorb excess voltage to protect your devices.

3. Backup Power System 

Protecting from power spikes is one thing, but your home will still be without power. Therefore, invest in a backup power system, such as a generator or uninterruptible power supply (UPS), to provide temporary electricity during a power outage. Generator installation can keep essential systems running, like refrigerators, medical equipment, and communication devices. A UPS can give you enough time to shut down computers and other sensitive electronics properly. There are a lot of choices and options, from partial home backup generators that only power essential items to whole home generators and even ways to tie in your portable generator to your home's electrical system via a transfer switch!

4. Secure Outdoor Equipment 

Outdoor systems like air conditioning units, satellite dishes, solar panels, patio furniture, umbrellas, etc... are all vulnerable to storm damage. Ensure that these are adequately secured to prevent them from being blown away or damaged by heavy winds and debris. If a major storm is approaching, you might consider covering these systems to provide extra protection.

5. Secure Windows & Doors 

Reinforce windows and doors to prevent them from being damaged by strong winds and flying debris. Consider installing storm shutters or boarding windows if you expect severe weather. Securing these entry points can also help prevent water from entering your home.

6. Tree and Drainage Maintenance

Now that you've secured and protected your home, look around your yard. Ensure that gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems are clear of debris to prevent water from backing up and causing flooding. Proper drainage can prevent water from entering your home and damaging electrical systems. Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home. Falling branches can damage power lines, roofs, and other critical systems during a storm.

7. Create A Digital Backup

Take pictures and videos of your home and valuables (with date stamps if possible). Back up critical digital files and documents to the cloud or an external hard drive. This includes important documents, photos, and any data you can't afford to lose. This precaution helps protect valuable information from being lost due to storm-related damage.

Bonus Tip:

Create an Emergency Preparedness Kit. In addition to protecting your home systems, it's essential to be prepared for any emergency that might arise during a storm.

The Essentials Kit: Put together an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a portable charger, a battery-powered radio, necessary medications, water, non-perishable food, and other essentials. This kit can be a lifesaver if you experience a power outage or need to evacuate.

The Advanced Kit: Gas cans for your cars and generators, a chainsaw or axe if you live near trees or in a more rural area. Don't forget to have a battery back up for cell phones or a small radio - stay connected!